Rally ’round the flag Community, supporters raise Israel’s colors at city hall

Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk and State Rep. Mike Schlossberg were part of the strong turnout of the Jewish community and its supporters on May 19 for the raising of the Israeli flag at Allentown City Hall. The event celebrated Jewish Heritage Month, Israel’s 75th birthday and Jerusalem Day.

Bruce Reich, head of the Jewish Community Relations Council, opened the ceremonies by welcoming the crowd for the return of what had been an annual tradition of raising the Israeli flag here.

“Together we are united in our commitment to honor the legacy of the Jewish people in America and to build a brighter future for generations to come with deep love for our country and for the state of Israel,” he said.

Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley, highlighted “the contributions of Jewish Americans to form the fabric of our history, culture and society.”

“We have not been able to have this celebration for a number of years now,” she said, “and it’s so wonderful to be here. And we’re delighted to have our next generation, the students of the Jewish Day School, to join us as well.”

Mayor Tuerk stepped up to the mic and pointed out some officials in attendance, including Police Chief Charles Roca, City Council Vice President Cynthia Mota,

Amy Cozze from U.S. Sen. Bob Casey’s office and Lehigh County Judge Zachary Cohen.

Tuerk looked around through the crowd. “As you can see here in Allentown, there is a tradition of Jewish American achievement, and we’re incredibly proud of the people how have joined us today,” he said. “I want to finish by extending my gratitude to the Jewish American community for your invaluable contributions to our city.”

Rep. Schlossberg was next. He said he’d been to many flag raisings over the years. This was the first that was personal for him. He expressed appreciation that Allentown has a mayor who promotes diversity, viewing the day’s event in part as a public declaration against antisemitism. “This was always a city where I’ve felt safe,” he said. He took a few moments